Barack Obama surprises WNBA All-Stars at their practice
AP News • • sports
Key Points:
- Former President Barack Obama surprised the 22 WNBA All-Stars during their practice at his new Presidential Center in Chicago, expressing admiration for their excellence and the growth of the game.
- Obama interacted personally with players, including taking photos, shaking hands, and chatting with stars like Angel Reese, Caitlin Clark, A’ja Wilson, and Jonquel Jones, even briefly demonstrating a defensive stance on the court.
- This event marked the first professional sports use of the basketball court at the Obama Presidential Center, which opened in June, highlighting the center's connection to sports and community engagement.
- WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert praised Obama’s inspirational role and his basketball ties, noting the significance of the league being the first to play at the center during its 30th anniversary.
- After meeting the players, Obama also spoke to a group of league investors and nearly 100 high school girls, emphasizing his ongoing support for basketball and youth empowerment.
